Christening Gift Ideas: 12 Original and Personalised Gifts
Partager
The ideal christening gift is a lasting keepsake that the child can keep as they grow up. The most appreciated ideas: a personalised item with their name, an engraved piece of jewellery or object, or a gift that marks the date. For an original, budget-friendly gift, a personalised print with the child's name (€5 to €6, sent by email within 24 to 48 hours) is a safe choice. Here are 12 ideas grouped by type, with an indicative budget for each.
By the Atelier Salad-Dressing Paris team, a Parisian shop of printable wall art. Updated September 2026.
At a glance: 12 christening gift ideas
- A personalised print with the child's name (€5 to €6)
- A print with the christening date and a message
- A christening memory book
- A personalised keepsake box
- A christening medal or necklace
- An engraved ID bracelet
- An engraved cup or cutlery set
- A personalised money box
- A children's book to reread over the years
- A letter to open on their 18th birthday
- A tree planted for the child
- A personalised print delivered within 24-48 hours (last minute)
Personalised keepsake gifts
These are the gifts that last for years, because they are unique to the child.
1. A personalised print with the child's name
It showcases the name in a gentle illustration, ready to frame in the child's room. Parents can keep it on the wall for years, then store it with the child's keepsakes. Several themes are available: teddy bear on a cloud, elephant, giraffe or wildflowers.
Budget: €5 to €6 for the file, plus printing and framing.
2. A print with the christening date and a message
On some prints, the message below the name can be personalised: you can add the date of the christening, the place, or a short note from the godparent. This is the case for the teddy bear name print and the floral name print.
Budget: around €6.
3. A christening memory book
An album to fill with photos from the ceremony, guests' names and messages from the family. It becomes a precious keepsake the child will discover later on.
Budget: around €15 to €30.
4. A personalised keepsake box
A wooden box engraved with the child's name, to store the invitation, sugared almonds, a photo and the little treasures of their first years.
Budget: around €20 to €40.
Traditional gifts from godparents
Godparents often give a more symbolic gift, meant to be kept for a lifetime.
5. A christening medal or necklace
This is the most classic christening gift. It is often a medal engraved with the child's name and the date of the christening, in gold or silver.
Budget: around €50 to €200 depending on the metal.
6. An engraved ID bracelet
A bracelet with the name engraved on one side and the christening date on the other. Choose an adjustable model so it lasts longer as the child grows.
Budget: around €40 to €150.
7. An engraved cup or cutlery set
A traditional gift, sometimes passed down from generation to generation. Engraving the name and date makes it a unique piece.
Budget: around €30 to €100.
Useful and symbolic gifts
8. A personalised money box
A money box with the child's name, along with a first coin or note: a lovely way to start their savings.
Budget: around €15 to €30, plus the amount you give.
9. A children's book to reread over the years
A beautiful illustrated book with a handwritten dedication on the first page. The child will read it again and again, and keep the note from the person who gave it.
Budget: around €10 to €25.
10. A letter to open on their 18th birthday
Write a letter describing the christening day and your wishes for the child, then seal it in an envelope to be opened when they turn 18. A free gift, but a deeply moving one.
Budget: €0.
11. A tree planted for the child
Plant a fruit tree in the parents' garden, or fund a tree through a charity: the tree grows alongside the child.
Budget: around €20 to €60.
The last-minute gift
12. A personalised print delivered within 24-48 hours
The christening is in two days and you have nothing? Order a personalised print: you receive the file by email within 24 to 48 hours, then print and frame it before the ceremony, or send it straight to the parents. Discover our full collection of personalised prints.
Budget: €5 to €6.
How much should you spend on a christening gift?
There is no rule, but here are some common guidelines:
| Who is giving? | Typical budget | Suitable ideas |
|---|---|---|
| Guest, family friend | €10 to €30 | Personalised print, dedicated book, money box |
| Close family | €30 to €80 | Keepsake box, engraved cup, memory book |
| Godparent | €50 and up | Medal, ID bracelet, engraved necklace |
| Group gift | depends on the group | Gold jewellery, savings for the child |
Tip: pair a symbolic gift with a personalised keepsake. For example, a letter to open at 18 and a print with the child's name, for under €10.
Mistakes to avoid
- Choosing a gift that is too "baby": christenings often take place anywhere from a few months to several years of age. Think of a gift that will last.
- Forgetting to check the spelling of the name: this is the most common mistake on personalised gifts.
- Duplicating the godparents' gift: check with the parents to avoid two medals.
- Choosing jewellery that is too delicate: for a young child, opt for a simple, sturdy piece to wear later.
- Giving a religious gift without checking: some naming ceremonies are non-religious. A personalised keepsake works in every case.
Frequently asked questions
What should you give for a christening?
The most appreciated gift is a lasting keepsake: a personalised item with the child's name, an engraved piece of jewellery or a memory book. On a small budget, a personalised name print is an original gift that arrives quickly.
What should a godparent give?
Traditionally, godparents give a symbolic gift meant to be kept: a medal, a necklace, an ID bracelet or an engraved cup. There is no obligation, and a personalised keepsake is also much appreciated.
How much should you spend on a christening gift?
Between €10 and €30 for a guest, €30 to €80 for close family, and often €50 or more for godparents. What matters most is the sentimental value of the gift.
What is an original and affordable christening gift?
A personalised print with the child's name (€5 to €6), a book with a handwritten dedication, or a letter to open on their 18th birthday are original and affordable ideas.
What gift suits a non-religious naming ceremony?
A personalised keepsake, a book, a money box or a planted tree are perfect for a non-religious naming ceremony, as they are not tied to any religion.
Our advice
The best christening gift is one the child can keep as they grow up. If you are looking for an idea that is personal, original and budget-friendly, a personalised print with their name ticks every box. Discover our designs in the collection of personalised prints. For more ideas, read our articles on what to give for a birth and first birthday gift ideas.